An epic redesign is coming! Hailed as the most futuristic S-Class? Renderings of the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class have arrived.

A few days ago, spy photos of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class undergoing testing were leaked online. As a mid-cycle refresh, the vehicle's overall appearance is expected to change significantly. Currently, the official announcement states that the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is scheduled to debut on January 29, 2026. Coincidentally, at the recently concluded Guangzhou Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz also unveiled the Vision Iconic concept car. While this name might be unfamiliar to some, many rumors suggest that the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the W224 model, will largely adopt the styling of the Vision Iconic concept car. Therefore, in this article, we've compiled renderings of both the mid-cycle refresh and the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class, giving you a comprehensive look at what the 2026 and 2029 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will look like!

First, let's look at the spy photos of the mid-cycle facelift model. The new car's front fascia is expected to adopt Mercedes-Benz's latest design language, with a redesigned shield-shaped grille. The headlights will also incorporate two "three-pointed star" LED daytime running lights. Additionally, the lower bumper is expected to undergo subtle styling adjustments. The side profile remains largely unchanged from the current model, but notably, cameras have been added to the front fenders, suggesting the new car may feature Mercedes-Benz's latest intelligent driving assistance functions. The rear of the vehicle primarily focuses on upgrading the taillights, which will also incorporate the "three-pointed star" element. Furthermore, prior to the spy photos, a set of renderings of the new model's parts were also released, allowing us to see the body details more clearly.

The renderings largely retain the design from the spy photos, with an enlarged shield-shaped grille adorned with chrome trim. The headlights incorporate the three-pointed star emblem, while the lower bumper emphasizes the air intakes on either side, creating a more visually striking appearance compared to the current model. The side profile remains unchanged, maintaining its elegant and flowing lines. Parts images reveal that the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class will offer a variety of wheel designs, including large, round alloy wheels.

The most significant change at the rear is the addition of the three-pointed star emblem to the taillights, making them more distinctive and dynamic. It's worth noting that 2026 is a special year for Mercedes-Benz. 140 years ago, Karl Benz patented the "Benz I," so the release of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class in 2026 certainly carries special significance, and perhaps even a more prestigious special edition will be launched.

Next, let's extend the timeline further and take a look at the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic concept car. The vehicle reimagines Mercedes-Benz's iconic grille. The new shield-shaped grille draws inspiration from the classic shield-shaped vertical grilles of the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman, W108, and W111, featuring a wide chrome frame, a smoked glass-like mesh, and integrated contour lighting, blending classic retro elements with modern digital technology. The vehicle's hood, combined with flowing body lines and a rear design that pays homage to the 300 SL, creates a consistent Mercedes-Benz "stance." The rounded, full rear end, along with the overall flowing lines and elongated hood, creates a stance that is both elegant and dynamic.

The renderings of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class showcase a more futuristic design language. They largely retain the concept car's styling, featuring a more aggressive front end with a large shield-shaped grille, reminiscent of a bodybuilder in a tailor-made black suit at a gala dinner—a perfect blend of elegance and muscularity. The rear design remains understated, incorporating elements of the concept car while simplifying the lines for a smoother, more refined look. The three-pointed star taillights and tasteful chrome accents are, of course, essential for a refined aesthetic.

Each refresh of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is not merely the birth of a new car, but a recalibration of the definition of luxury. We can already glimpse how it strikes a balance between its prestigious lineage and the digital age—it may appear more youthful and technologically advanced, but its inherent composure and ambition remain unchanged. Ultimately, all predictions and speculations will be answered when the actual vehicle is unveiled. Let's look forward to the surprises the Mercedes-Benz S-Class will bring us next!